Sometimes when things aren´t going well for a team, you need some guy that will take charge and be that spark plug to get a team out of a bind, or pray that the basketball God has some kind of eye on you, or hope for that special player to suddenly appear that only flies in for games. Midway through the first quarter, German Regionaliga team EVL Limburg were holding their own having tied Giessen 12-12 and didn´t really need any support, but all of a sudden a short, stocky afro-american appeared at the Limburg bench with a James Harden like beard and for a second it seemed like ex Limburg guard Ronald Howard was back for the grind to help Limburg in the game. However it wasn´t Ronald Howard, but his brother Zeon. He was just happy to have made it to the game after his whirl wind experience getting to the gym. „My tire blew out on the A-3 highway and I had to go back to the airport to get another car. I am usually at the game and hour before the game. I am just happy that I wasn´t pulled over on the highway“, smiled Zeon Gray. Gray wasn´t able to be that saviour either as the Giessen 46ers easily won their first test game of the season 90-53. „You could see that Giessen is well coached as they played well together. We were outmatched, but I am proud of the guys as they never gave up“, stressed Zeon Gray. For Giessen it was a positive start to the season as one can´t evaluate the game too much since it was against a Regionaliga team, but Giessen guard TJ DiLeo was happy with the effort of the team. „I like what I saw. At times  we were a bit sloppy. We can still improve on defense and our offense is a work in progress. I thought each guy made good plays and we shared the ball well. We have to learn better to play with leads and not loose focus as teams in the Pro A will always be able to come back“, stressed ex Temple guard TJ DiLeo.

The first test game of the season for both teams was held in a small gym on the outskirts of Limburg. EVL Limburg was without their new import player 23 year old 193cm guard Paul Dick from Ireland that last season played for the Belfast Star. Giessen started the game with guards Cameron Wells, and TJ DiLeo, forwards Benjamin Lischka and Yorman Polas and center Jonathan Malou. Limburg guard Justin Stahllbohm got the first big cheers from the home crowd as he made two very difficult shots hitting over Malu and Lishka while hitting the floor twice as EVL Limburg held on to the lead 6-4. Both teams then exchanged runs as Giessen went on a 6-0 run to extend their lead to 10-6 as Wells connected on a three pointer, Dileo nailed a runner and Malu made a free throw. However with both teams still feeling each other out, EVL Limburg took advantage of that and went on a 6-2 run to tie the game at 12-12. In the run 28 year old 210cm center Lithuanian Mantas Bernatavicious took control inside getting two tip ins as Giessen at times seemed overwelmed by his physicality. However this was as close as EVL Limburg would be the whole game as Giessen now broke the game open and would never look back. They closed out the game with a 15-1 run to lead 27-13 after one quarter. The comeback kid Besnik Bekteshi who once was labelled as one of the big talents in Germany from the year 1993. After playing for BBA Ludwigsburg in the 2009-2010 season where he averaged16.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.4apg, 3.7spg, critics thought that his career would really take off, but it didn´t. In the next three seasons, he played only 22 Beko BBl games for Ludwigsburg being more of a garbage time player than a role player. After sitting out last season due to a serious injury, he hopes of getting back on track in his basketball career at the age of 21 with the Giessen 46ers. In this run he steered eight points including back to back three pointers. Ex Chmenitz guard Eric Palm nailed a three pointer  and ex Kirchheim big man Bjoern Schoo made a lay in.

In the second quarter, Giessen continued to find their rhythm more and more and everyone was getting into the scoring as they were sharing the ball nicely. Giessen also got more physical on the boards as offensive rebounds started to multiply just like the Bastian Schweinstieger ice bucket challenge video clicks at you tube. Malu started the Giessen scoring with a baby hook shot which was matched by a jumper from Limburg player Boris Bosjnak. Giessen kept heightening their lead with consecutive buckets from ex Tuebingen guard Cameron Wells and a three pointer from Eric Palm as Giessen led 36-19. Giessen continued to get more comfortable with each other and the soft rim extending their lead to 47-21 going on a 11-2 run. In the run, 16 year old Niklas Bilski connected from the wing, while the come back kid Bekteshi had the hot hand scoring inside and heaving home a bomb from the parking lot. In the last few minutes, EVL Limburg caught Giesen napping on  a few offensive sets  ending the second quarter on a 6-3 run to trail 50-27 at halftime. In the run, EVL Limburg got the line and Justin Stallbohm finally connected on a three pointer after having had misfortune from the field since the first few minutes where he made two tough shots “We had some mental lapses. Good teams can´t let that happen“, stressed Zeon Gray.

EVL Giessen came up more than flat in the third quarter allowing Giessen to jump all over them going on a 11-0 run to extend their lead to 61-27. American Eric Palm got Giessen going on the run with  a tip in a nd three pointer. Giessen did a good job on the offenisve glass getting a tip in from Polas and a lay in from Malu. „Palm had lights out. We really should not have let him breath, but should have smelt his chewing gum“, added Zeon Gray. EVL Limburg then took a chapter out of the Giessen third quarter run by going on their own run of 7-0 snapping the GIessen lead to 61-34. This was a strong phase from Boris Bosjnak who used his athletcism scoring inside twice. However EVL Limburg then let Giessen on a 8-0 run to extend their lead to 68-34 as Di Leo hit  a pull up jumper and then made a steal going coast to coast for the easy lay up and Bilski hit from outside again. Limburg ended the third quarter with a 4-1 run, but Giessen still hd dthe overwhelming 69-38 lead as the class difference between both teams was more than evident and EVL Limburg was getting more tired as they were playing on a 9 man rotation.

Giessen started off the fourth quarter on a 6-0 run to lead 75-39 as Palm and Polas scored inside. In the fourth quarter, it was obvious that Giessen would win this game and the question was if they could duplicate their firepower and reach the 100 point mark. One guy who stayed quiet in his first test game of the season was Benjamin Lischka. He started his basketball career in 2005 for  VfB Giessen (Regionalliga) where he played some years and then moved to TV Lich playing with his brother Johannes. He then played two seasons with Kirchheim and Crailsheim before returning home last season to Giessen playing 38 games and averaging 8.9ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 70.1%. When you examine the face of Lischka during a game, one thing comes to mind instantly. He has a pokerface on at all times. It could be his birthday, he could be asked by Paris Hilton on a date or Daniel Colman could give him a bit of his 15 million poker win and it seems like Lischka would have that stern serious look despite anyone else being overjoyed, because that is his game face/poker face at all times. There were still some spectacular shots in the last five minutes with two form Zeon Gray. On the first shot, Gray hit an in your face shot against Cameron Wells where he had that look of bewilderment on how he could of had that audacity to even try that shot. Later Gray made a seemingly impossible fade  away bank shot to cut the Giessen lead to 83-49 that would have deserved a nomination for ESPN top 10 plays. „That shot was like cat and mouse. The defender was on me and wanted me to take the shot. He put his hand up which forced me to take ball down again. Then he got close to me again and I had to shoot it. It felt good and I knew it was going in. Us small guys often look wild taking shots, but we have to find unorthodox  ways of taking shots“, warned Zeon Gray. In the last few minutes, Gray would make one more shot and Malu was sent to the free throw line twice while making an one. In the end, Giessen was way too much for EVL Limburg winning 90-53. Giessen was led by Besnek Bekteshi with 16 points. Eric Palm added 12 points. Jonathan Malu, Cameron Wells and Bjoern Schoo each chipped in with nine points a piece. EVL Limburg was led by Boris Bosnjak with 17 points and Zeon Gray added 16 points. Giessen still have a long way to go in their preseason and second year man DiLeo already sees differences from this team to last years team, but not much in his role. „I think that we are more athletic this season as well as having more size and experience.Also each guy from last season has more experience coming into this season. I think my role will be like last season. Palm and I sharing minutes and when we are both on the court I moving to the three. Coach wants me to play aggressive and team basketball“, commented TJ DiLeo.

 

 

Rasid Mahalbasic is a 23 year old 211cm center that was born in Jesenice (Slovenia), but also hast he Austrian citzenship and plays for the Austrian national team. Mahalbasic started his basketball career in 2006 for the Worthersee Piraten (A Bundesliga) where he played until 2009. In the 2009-2010 season he played for Bosna ASA BH Telecom Sarajevo (Bosnia-D1, starting five): DNP, in Oct.’09 moved back to kelag Worthersee Piraten (Austria-A Bundesliga, starting five): 27 games: 18.4ppg, Reb-2(8.6rpg), 1.1apg, FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 31.4%, FT: 64.4%. In the 2010-2011 season he played for  Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul (Turkey-TBL), in Dec.’10 loaned to Tofas Bursa (Turkey-TBL): 10 games: 3.7ppg, 3.0rpg; in Feb.’11 moved back to Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul (Turkey-TBL), in Mar.’11 signed at KK Split (Croatia-A1): 13 games: 5.0ppg, 2.3rpg. In the 2011-2012 season he played for Zlatorog Lasko (Slovenia-Telemach League): Slovenian League: 2 games: 4.0ppg, 1.0spg, 1.5bpg; Adriatic League: 3 games: 4.7ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0bpg. In the 2012-2013 season he played for Asseco Prokom Gdynia (Poland-TBL, starting five): 36 games: 11.0ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 58.0%, FT: 68.7%; Euroleague: 10 games: 9.1ppg, Reb-5(6.8rpg), 1.3apg, FGP: 58.2%, FT: 59.1%. Last season he played for CEZ Basketball Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL, starting five): VTB United League: 18 games: 11.1ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 63.5%, FT: 72.2%; Czech Rep. NBL: 29 games: 10.1ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.0apg, FGP-2(68.8%), 3PT-1(66.7%), FT: 62.2%; Eurocup: 18 games: 11.3ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 60.6%, FT: 69.0%. This season he will play for BC Astana (Kazakhstan-D1). He spoke to German Hoops before the do or die game for Germany against Austria in Hagen, Germany.

 

Rasid thanks for talking to German Hoops. Congrats on the 80-71 victory against Luxemburg. Are these type of games that one should win at times more difficult to play and win than the tough games because one has to have the right mentality to beat the lesser talented teams?

 

As a country who is progressing in Basketball we can not allow to underestimate any team in this competition. Luxemburg might not beat anybody so far but still, we have to respect all teams

What was the biggest strength of Austria against Luxemburg that you will want to carry over to the Germany game on Sunday in Hagen?

We showed that we can play a nice collective basketball over the whole 40 minutes, and also the percentage of the 3 point shots was very solid. If we can play hard defense and hold Germany under 70 points everything will be possible.

How happy have you been with your own play in qualifying for Euro 2015? You are averaging 17,8ppg, 8,8rpg and 3,5apg. You really have been a work horse, but could you still elevate your game even more if needed?

I am very happy with the Team success, its a big thing for our Ski-Nation to be in a realistic position to qualify for the Eurobasket 2015. My game is so good like the team, and we are seeing progress on both sides so far .

 

If someone had told you before qualifying that near the end Austria would be in first place in the standings what would you have thought? What has been the secret of the 3-1 Austria record and good play?

All of us believe that we can make it far , and good preparation , team chemistry and a lot of heart make things a lot easier for us, but I would tell this someone he might be right

What Austrian national player has been the unsung hero in the first four games. The player that has been very important, but not necessarily got all the credit he should have deserved?

David Hasenburger is our un seen star he could have a bright future, this summer ,he signed with Güssing Knights who will play the Eurochallenge, untill now he played on the power forward position and will he will be key player for the following games

Austria lost the first game at home against Germany 77-64 and now go to Germany for the rematch. Germany has to win in a do or die type game while Austria wants revenge. What kind of game can we await?

We can expect a fight all 40 minutes , last time we played only 37 minutes this time we will give everything we got !!! At the end of the 40 minutes we hope to be the better team and take the win home

Germany is only 2-2 and have been a disappointment. Are you surprised about their lack luster play. In Bonn against Poland, they were missing the motivation and simple killer instinct wanting to win the game.

Germany is a very young and talented team who is building with some new faces, with coach Mutapcic , they have a bright future. Well now its Germany but at the end we are all humans and all of as can play basketball.

Ingo Weiss of the German basketball federation has said Germany will explode and win in Hagen. Is this more just cockiness or despair from the side of Germany? IF Germany doesn´t qualify, it will once again be a big step backwards for Germany basketball.

We don’t care what the Federation is saying , my team and I have nothing to lose , we will fight till the end Against Germany . So Germany have to show they deserve the win. Germany basketball will never make a step back, the BBL has a very strong background where they are progressing every year

You are only 23 years old, but this upcoming season you will be playing for your 9th team with BC Astana (Kazakhstan-D1). Do you sometimes feel like a basketball world traveler? Has all these experience helped your game more than had you played with just a few teams in your career?

My life showed me a lot places in the world, and I met a lot of people who helped me develop my personality and also the way I play, without the ups and downs in my career, I  would not be the same player I am today.

You played with Euroleague team Asseco Procom two seasons ago. What was more difficult battling Adam Hrycaniuk down low in practice or having to stop Jerel Blassingame on the penetration in practice? Lol

I think my problem was to stop Adam Hrycaniuk, and his problem was to catch Jerel.

Last season you won the Czech title with Nymburk. If you look at the roster this season with Jiri Welsch, Derek Raivio, Darius Washington, Chester Simmons, Garret Stutz and Christian Burns, one could almost hand them all titles without playing a game. You played there last season, but when looking at this team, granted the club stays injury free could this be an undefeated type of team?

I believe that Nymburk put a very good roster together for the upcoming season , and I am pretty sure the will win the Czech Titel again, but we will see if they will beat BC Astana in the VTB

Early in your career you played at Worthersee under the guidance of Matthias Fischer who now has made a name for himself in the German Beko BBL. How did you get better as a player under his coaching?

Fischer changed my game totally , from a big man who was just posting up and screening , he changed my game totally . We worked on my jump shot, dribbling and he tried to make me quicker on the court. He helped me to make the step out of Austria. I am very happy for Coach F. that he is doing so well in Germany

You recently took the ALS ice bucket challenge. Many players haven´t been to creative and just stood in a shower and took the ice. If you had the chance to be a bit creative, what would be the perfect ice bucket setting for you?

I would remind the people that its cool and funny to do the challenge but they should also donate some real money !!!!

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

Germany vs Poland.

 

Thanks Rasid for the chat.

Keith Gabriel is a 25 year old 190cm guard that will be playing his third professional season and first in Germany with the Kirchheim Knights. He started his basketball career in 2008 with VMI(NCAA) where he played until 2012 playing a total of 124 NCAA games and as a senior he played 33 games: 17.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.9apg, 1.8spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 74.5%.in 2012-2013 he started his professional basketball career for  Norrkoping Dolphins (Sweden-Basketligan): EuroChallenge: 12 games: 6.8ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 71.4%; Swedish Basketligan: 28 games: 8.1ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 42.7%, FT: 63.9%. Last season he played for KB RTV 21 Prishtina (Kosovo-SuperLeague): 4 games: 17.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.0apg, 2.0spg, in Dec.’13 moved to Petrolina AEK Larnaca (Cyprus-Division A): 6 games: 7.0ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.2spg. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

Keith thanks for talking to German Hoops. You will be starting your third professional season and first in Germany. What were the main reasons for coming to Germany?

My reason for coming to Germany was to be able to play in a good country with good competition, show my abilities on the court and win a championship.

 

What do you know about the country Germany and basketball in particular in Germany? You have some friends that have played in Germany. Was there anyone in particular from your friends that helped you with your decision most?

One thing I know about German basketball is Dirk Nowitzki. He’s a great player and I have admired him ever since he joined the NBA. I also knew that there was a lot of good competition across Germany. I talked to a couple of my good friends about the league and also the city. Just to name a few, Trey Hampton, Frankie Sullivan, and Tavares Speaks, which played here in Kirchheim last season. When asking them about the opportunity they all just told me to go for it and everything was all positive about the league and the city.

 

Kirchheim is a pretty young team and with the exception of Ben Beran have three other Americans that will be playing their first season in Germany. What has been your impression oft he team so far?

My impression of the team is that, yes, we are young, but we have a great group of guys that come in day in and day out. Everyone is on the same page and everyone wants to come in, play their role and win.

 

Your new teammate, Enosch Wolf won the 2011 NCAA title with Kemba Walker. Have you bombarded him with any Walker questions or are you waiting for the right time? lol. What would you really like to know about Kemba Walker if you could ask it?

 

Yeah man, its great to have someone on my team that has accomplished such a big goal and play with players such as Kemba. Haha I wouldn’t say “bombard”. Back in high school, Kemba and I played against each other at 5 star camp in “Philly Camp”. He was a very cool and down to earth person and knew how to handle being a star. One thing I asked Enosch was if he was still humbled after winning a championship and knowing he was going to be a lottery pick in the 2011 draft. Enosch told me that he was still humbled and one of the hardest workers he knew.

 

You were a big time scorer at VMI, but as a professional you haven´t score das extensively as when you were in college. Has your role primarly changed as a professional according to the certain situations and what kind of role do you  expect in Kirchheim?

At VMI, my role was to score the ball. Thats what I did. My first two years overseas, it has been a bit difficult to find my role because I joined the team after games were already being played and I didn’t feel like I got a chance to start from scratch and grow with the team. I was young, and not mature enough to handle the situation by just being thrown into the fire and trying to fit in. Thats another reason I was excited to accept this contract from Kirchheim because it really gave me a chance to work during preseason and start from scratch with the team.

 

You are a dynamic and explosive player who can give the team a burst of energy. However what is a hidden strength in your game that doesn´t get noticed right away?

Well, I have two answers for this question. Physically, a hidden strength of mine would be my ability to get off ball steals. Mentally, one strength that I have developed has been a “Remember the good, forget the bad” mentality and able to move onto the next play. I think thats a strength that good players must have to be successful on any level.

 

After a solid rookie season in Sweden, you had a rather up and down season last year in Kosovo and Cyprus. Was it pretty much a season to forget from your standpoint?

 

Last season was definitely a tough season for me. From injuries, to getting released, and just not achieving any of the goals that I had sat out for myself to accomplish for that year. Would I consider it a year to forget? Not at all! After leaving Cyprus, I spent a few months in Greece spending time with my twin brother, Kenny. It was the best months I’ve had since I have been overseas. Being able to watch his games, going over film before and after games just helping him strengthen his weaknesses and being around for the next game to see that he made a conscious effort to strengthen the things that we discussed. I felt like we both learned a lot from that experience and how to handle on the court and off the court situations to become better professionals in Europe.

As a rookie you played in Sweden for Norrkopig. Your teammate was Swedish basketball legend Fred Drains who was playing his 12th season fort he club as you were a rookie. What kind of relationship did you have with him and what could you generally learn from him on and off the court?

Our relationship was like Big Brother/Little Brother, Mentor/Mentee, and just a great friendship. I still talk to Fred today. He was such a humbled, hard working, and a great guy/player. One thing that I learned from Fred on the court was that anyone can be a leader with words, but it is more respectable when you lead with your actions. There would be times we would have to run and I would be tired, I look at Fred and he is just breathing calmly and in my head I am thinking, “How is this guy not tired at his age?” It was definitely a blessing to become teammates with someone of his caliber.

 

You played at Virginia Military Institute from 20082-012. You were a Big South Conf. Tournament Finalist in 2009 and 2012. If you look back at your career in college, how disappointing was it bowing out in 2 big finals? What was missing from the team winning a title?

Looking back at my college career, I always get a bitter taste in my mouth because I feel like I could have done so many things better to help my team and put us in better situations to win more games than we did. In 2009, I feel like we had all the right pieces from the team to the coaching staff, to win the conference tournament and play in March Madness. That day just wasn’t our day. In 2012, we made a great run to get to the championship game, we just ran out of gas. Furthermore, the team that we played (UNCA) they had a great team and they fought hard to win that game. Have to give credit where credit is due.

 

Duggar Baucom was your coach for four years at VMI. How did he prepare you best for a professional career on and off the court that has helped you mature as a professional?

Duggar Baucom prepared me just by forcing me to grow from a teenage kid to maturing into a respectful, hardworking young man. I feel like those characteristics alone gave me a chance to have a good professional career.

 

You have a twin brother Kenny that playys for Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir in Turkey this season. I guess the most noticeable difference is he has 19 inches on you. How has your relationship been over time and what has been the most important thing he has given to you as advice on and off the court?

The advice that he gives on the court is just constantly reminding me to do more defensively and get more rebounds from the guard position. Off the court, he gives me a lot of advice. He has two young boys, Kenny Jr. and Kameron. He just tells me that I don’t have as much responsibility right now so I have to take advantage of that and make sure that I stay in the gym to continue to expand my game.

 

I have seen that you have a very close relationship with NBA player Anthony Morrow. How important has he been to you as a friend?

 

Anthony and I are definitely very close. He has been a big brother to me for many years. We workout together over the summer, play on the same team for his ProAm League in Charlotte, and talk on a daily basis when I leave to come overseas. Even though he is in the NBA, it’s good to see how hungry he is to keep getting better and working harder during the offseason to continue developing as a player. Things like that really influence those around you. I am definitely looking forward to seeing him play with Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant. It’s going to be an exciting year of NBA basketball for me. #ThunderUp

 

 

If you had to compare the landscape around Kirchheim with that in Charlotte, could one say that the differences aren´t that extreme? Has the surrounding area in Germany been able to remind you a little of North Carolina?

In my opinion, Kirchheim is pretty different from Charlotte. Charlotte is a very large city and has a large population. Kirchheim on the other hand, is a very small city and when I take walks around the city, there’s hardly any people around. Kirchheim is definitely a beautiful place to be and a laid back atmosphere, which fits my style and personality.

 

You and just about every other human being ha staken the ALS Ice bucket challenge. What has been the most original video that you have seen?

 

The most original ALS Ice bucket challenge video was Charlie Sheen’s. I thought his video was very good. While we are on this subject, I just want to recognize two significant people that I have had the pleasure of getting to know while I attended VMI. The first one was Les Sparks who was my VMI teammates’ father (Michael Sparks). Les Sparks passed away from ALS on March 12, 2010. Secondly, Tony Conway who was the assistant VMI Soccer coach. Tony has been diagnosed with ALS for a couple of years, but he is still happy, fighting through ALS, and living life. Lastly, prayers to all of those effected with ALS and the families as well!

 

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 

The last movie that I saw was “Assault on Wall Street”. It was definitely an interesting movie that I enjoyed quite a bit. If you haven’t watched it, I would definitely check it out!

 

Thanks Keith for the chat

 

 

Thomas Schreiner is a 27 year old 195cm point guard from St Polten, Austria that will be playing his third season with Spanish team  MoraBanc Andorra (Spain-Liga Endesa)helping them move up this season to division one. He started his basketball career in 2003 for : UKJ SUBA St.Polten (B Bundesliga) where he played until 2006. In the 2006-2007 season he played for  BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers (A Bundesliga): Stage 1: 21 games: 3.1ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.8bpg; Stage 2: 14 games: 7.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.0apg, 2.3bpg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 71.4%. Then in 2007 he returned back to St Polten where he played until 2011. In the 2011-2012 season he played for  ECE Bulls Kapfenberg (A Bundesliga). Since 2012 he has been playing for Andorra. Currently he is a member of the Austrian national team and spoke to German Hoops about the do or die game for Germany against Austria on Sunday in Hagen.

 

 

Thomas thanks again for talking to German Hoops. If someone had told you before the start of the 2015 Euroqualifying that with two games to go Austria would be at the top of the standings with a 3-1 record, what would you have thought knowing of the tough competition of Germany and Poland?

 

Going into the group it was obvious it wouldn’t be easy to compete for the two spots. But I always knew that if we played our best basketball we would have our chances.

With the exception of 5 minutes where Austria lost concentration letting Germany back into the game, Austria should be 4-0 now. From your view as a guard who sees the game in front of you, how has the Austrian game developed since game one until now?

I think the main way we have improved since game one is that we are in better control of our ups and downs. Also, with each game we are getting more and more used to playing with each other.

Congrats on the 80-71 win against Luxemberg. They poured in 28 points early, but from then on Austria took control. What defensive adjustments did Austria make in order to turn the game around?

First of all I want to give credit to Luxembourg, they made a lot tough shots in the first half. We were able to increase the intensity on the defensive end in the second half and take control of the game.

If there is anything that one can criticize in the Austrian game were the 19 turnovers. Against Germany and Poland, the team kept the turnovers down. Is this something you will work on more before the game against Germany even if your next opponent Germany were harmless on the defensive end against Poland.

For us it is important to keep our turnovers down. If we want to have a chance in the next two games we have to limit them like we did in the first games.

Tom Schumacher led all scorers with 19 points and is a top player in the league in Luxemburg. Can a player like you take something from his game like you can from a Heiko Schaffartzik when you are playing against each other? Can a player like a Schumacher get underrated simply because he comes from a small country like Luxemburg?

Yes, I think it it hard to get recognized when you come from a country like Luxembourg or Austria, but he is definitely a good player. He’s proved it in the last couple of games and has the talent to play in a better league.

How happy have you been with your individual performance averaging 9,0ppg, 2,3rpg and 3,5apg. You haven´t been the scorer so much, but have had an important part in the organization.

 

I don’t care about statistics but only about winning. I’ll do whatever the team needs to win.

A huge final on Sunday in Hagen against Germany. You will be playing in the living room of your ex teammate Larry Gordon. Germany has to win and Austria is seeking revenge for their loss against Germany. How much are you looking forward to playing this huge game?

I’m very excited for this showdown against Germany. I love playing in games where there’s a lot on the line.

Germany stunk up the building In Bonn losing To Poland and showing little motivation. Are you still a bit surprised how Germany has been up and down? Winning by 40 vs Luxemburg and being given a basketball lesson by Poland. The end of qualifying in approaching and they still at times look like they just entered training camp in the summer?

I think Poland is a very strong and experienced team and it’s very hard to beat them. I think Germany is not playing on top of their potential because they did not have as much time to prepare for the qualification.

This is one of the biggest games for Germany in years and they will have much pressure. Austria has the upper hand and can go into the game with a 3-1 record and less pressure. Ingo Weiss form the German basketball federation stated that Germany will explode and win without a doubt. How much motivation does that give you sensing that Germany seems to have little respect for Austria´s performance in this qualifying round?

We don’t need any extra motivation for a big game like this. Having the possibility of an upset like this is more than enough motivation for us.

One last game against top German guards Dennis Schroeder and Heiko Schaffartzik. Is this the game of your life? With a win, Austria would qualify and give basketball a new level in a country dominated by soccer and ice hockey?

It would be very important for basketball in Austria to win against Germany and qualify. If we do win and qualify it would be the game of my life, so far!

If someone had told you before qualifying that England would lose twice to Iceland what would you have said? How crazy has this qualifying been this summer?

I know Iceland, I’ve played against them many times. They’re a small country but have many talented and good players. They have the quality to surprise other teams. In general I think every country has good coaches and players that practice hard, which is why I think there’ll always be upsets.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I haven’t watched any movies lately, so it’s still Captain America 2.

 

Thanks Thomas for the chat.

 

Ahmad Smith is a 29 year old 194cm guard from Virginia that will play this upcoming season for SC Rasta Vechta and  recently completed his second season for Rent4Office of the German PRO A. playing 35 games and averaging 12.1ppg, 5.8rpg, Assists-1(7.1apg), 1.3spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT: 66.7%. In 2012-2013 he started the with  BiG Oettinger Rockets Gotha (Germany-ProA)12 games: 7.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 4.7apg, 2FGP: 48.9%, 3FGP: 14.3%, FT: 72.2%, in Jan.’13 moved to Nuernberger Basketball Club (Germany-ProA, starting five): 19 games: 9.6ppg, Reb-4(8.5rpg), Assists-2(6.4apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 35.5%, 3PT: 31.2%, FT: 77.6% He played at St.Bonaventure(NCAA) from 2002-2006 and in his senior year played 28 games: ScoreA10-8(14.2ppg), RebA10-10(6.2rpg), AssistsA10-9(3.5apg), FGP: 41.0%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 59.8%. In 2006-2007, he played for Mardyke UCC Demons Cork (Ireland-SuperLeague): 9 games: 18.9ppg, 5.7rpg, 4.2apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 60.8%. In 2007-2008, he played for SVD 49 Dortmund (Regionalliga): 6 games: 30.2ppg. In 2008-2009, he played for : BSV Wulfen (Germany-Regionalliga) 23.5ppg, 10.1rpg, 6.0apg, 3PT: 35.2%. In 2009-2010, he played for Hertener Loewen (Germany-ProB)29 games: 18.2ppg, Reb-2(8.7rpg), Assists-1(7.1apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 69.5%. In 2010-2011, he played for s Oliver Baskets Wuerzburg (Germany-ProA): left before the season started, then moved to SVD 49 Dortmund (Germany-Regionalliga): 6 games: 12.8ppg, waived in Nov.’10, in Jan.’11 signed at Nuernberger Basketball Club (Germany-ProB, starting five): 15 games: 8.3ppg, 6.8rpg, Assists-1(7.1apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 39.1%, 3PT: 28.2%, FT: 69.1%. In 2011-2012, he played for the Kichheim Knights he played  35 games: 9.9ppg, 6.1rpg, Assists-1(6.7apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 62.0%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

Ahmad thanks for talking to German Hoops. the summer has come to a close as team prepare for the new basketball season. What was your summer highlight?

 

Hey Miles my summer was great. Spending time with my family and friends making up for the lost time I missed throughout the year.

You signed with German pro A team SC rasta Vechta. Why did you chose to join this team?

The clubs ambition on getting back to the BBL was a big factor in my decision. I’ve played in Vechta a couple of times and the atmosphere was always amazing with great fans!

What sold you on the philosophy of head coach Stephen Arigbabu?

Talking to Coach Arigbabu throughout the summer we shared the same goal and that’s winning and working hard. So it was an easy decision for me.

I have been a huge supporter of you getting to the Beko BBL the last years. You have made great strides coming from Regionaliga in your Dortmund days to the German pro A. Why has the beko BBL still not become your home?

Not sure Miles I can’t worry about what I can’t control. I guess they don’t want me to put on and prove them wrong like I’ve done at every level I’ve played at in Germany.

You now are a member of SC Rasta Vechta. What has been your impression of the area, organization?

It’s been great here so far. They have a first class organization here in Vechta. They have taken care of everything I’ve needed and welcomed me with open arms.

The Pro A surely will be a tick even more competitive this season as the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg seem to be the heavy favorite to move up. However SC Rasta Vechta belong to a core of teams that also have very good chances. What is your first impression of your new teammates, skill level and hunger?

I’ve played against a lot of the guys in previous seasons and I feel we have one of the best rosters in the league. Like all of the other teams it doesn’t mean anything on paper if we don’t put it together on the court.

In comparison to other teams that you played for the last years, at what talent level is SC Rasta Vechta? Are they the most talented team you have been on?

We have a talented bunch of guys on this team but it’s way too early to say if it’s the best team I’ve played on. We’re going to continue to work hard throughout the pre season towards our goals so were still playing in May.

What kind of role do you envision in Vechta? It would not be an advantage for you to play differently with you filling up the stat sheet rebounding, assists scoring and steals or could you see yourself being that classic point guard more than in previous seasons?

Whatever role Coach Arigbabu has envisioned for me I’ll try to fulfill that to the best of my ability.

What has been your impression of rookies Amir Carraway and Vinnie Bailey? Will these guys get accustomed to the European style and be an impact right away?

There both hard workers that have came in and are doing everything the coaches have wanted them to do. Both guys are smart players with a high skill level I don’t think they will have any problems adjusting and will contribute in huge ways throughout the season.

SC Rasta Vechta also has veteran Chase Griffin. Do you see him being the leader of the team? What duel in past years sticks most in your mind with pervious battles with him?

Chase will definitely be one of the leaders on the team. He brings a winning mentality to our team. He works hard every day and is someone the young players can look up to. We’ve had some great games against each other in the past I’m happy he’s on my team this go around should be a fun year playing with him in the backcourt.

How much fun is it playing with top German pro A rebounder the last few years Donald Lawson? You being an excellent rebounder, can you still learn from him on the court?

Usually the top rebounding teams compete for the championship in any league. So it’s great to have the top rebounder from last season on our team. I’ve seen his intensity in practice so I think not only myself can learn from him but our whole team.

Will you be venturing out to Braunschweig on a free night to watch ex teammate Cornelius Adler play? You always marveled about his play in recent interviews.

Yeah of course I’ll try to catch as many games as I can throughout the season. Looking forward to see him play in his hometown!

Your ex teammate Will Chavis retired recently. What will you always keep in high regard when you hear his name mentioned?

I wish him the best I think he will be a good coach. He has lots of experience and knowledge for the game

How proud are you off Zamal Nixon reaching the BBL? How do you think he will come to terms with the Phoenix Hagen style of play?

 

I’m very proud of my guy Z he should of been in the BBL after his season in Nurnberg. He will play great in that system in Hagen and will show everyone the top players in the Pro A can play in the BBL with the opportunity.

 

Vechta is very much smaller than Nurnberg. What will you still have to get used to not having now which you could have in Nurnberg?

Shopping downtown and the restaurants.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

. Divergent… Shoutout to my guy TD whaddup doe!

 

Thnaks Ahmad for the chat.

 

 

 

 

The last time Mike Taylor coached an official game in Germany, a young Per Guenther had to withstand the on court tricks of ex NBA player Eddie Gill, future NBA player Aron Baynes was already getting his brute mode timing in synth and two time NCAA champion with Florida Lee Humphrey was learning how to transform that shy semi smile into that huge Teddy Bear smile of Mike Taylor who could always light up a room in an instance. 40 months have passed since his last game as Ulm coach losing to Oldenburg, but some things never change. Taylor still has that winner smile and one knows 30 feet away that he is approaching. He may have added a few pounds since 2011, but with a German wife, he is allowed the full service treatment of roast and spatzle around the globe. Since the separation of ratiopharm Ulm and Taylor in April of 2011, the Pennslyvania native has continued to go his way as a head coach having coached the Czech national team as an assistant, was an assistant for D-league team Rio Grande in Texas and as of recently was head coach of Boston Celtics affliate Maine Red Claws in the D-league the last two years. When he was approached by the Polish basketball federation for the head coaching job he didn´t refuse, but won´t be returning back to Maine this fall. If somebody had told him a few weeks ago that he would beat Germany twice, he may have tried to explain how difficult a task it would be, but the American was able leave Bonn with a perfect 2-0 record against Germany as Poland controlled Germany 88-76. Taylor was happy about returning back to Germany and sporting his so well known winner smile that he displayed back in the day in the old Kuhberg gym in Ulm after the bitter loss to Austria. „It was my dream to play this game in Ulm, but it was nice coming back to Bonn. I have good memories of the Bonn teams and Michael Koch, but not losing against them in the playoffs. I am so proud of my players. The way we came back after the loss against Austria deserves a lot of  respect. It was a great team win for us“, stressed Mike Taylor. Especially the way Poland has played under the leadership of Taylor has been amazing, because when he was in Germany as head coach with ratiopharm Ulm, it wouldn´t be a surprise if Ulm won 105-98 or lost 110-103 as his ability to score points was impressive, but his teams had difficulty to defend. That has changed now as in the first four games of qualifying the team has given up only 71 points as well as 71 points in two games against Germany. „When I was coach in Germany, I had the reputation of being an offenive minded coach. However in the last two years in the Boston Celtics organization, I worked hard at getting back to defense. The results have been great and we have had good defensive game plans so far. I have to give credit to the coaching staff and the players for executing our defensive game plan“, stressed Mike Taylor. His predecessor behind the Polish bench ex German national coach Dirk Bauermann watched the game and also had seen the good work of Taylor. „It isn´t always easy to rate the work of a coach when you are so far away, but despite the bitter loss to Austria, Taylor has done  a good job with Poland and I think the Polish federation is happy with his work“, added ex FC Bayern Munich head coach Dirk Bauermann.

Both countries Germany and Poland entered the game with identical 2-1 records as Germany came off a huge 40 point win in Trier against Hapless Luxemburg while Poland was coming off a cruel 83-81 loss against Austria. Germany also wanted  revenge for their bitter 68-67 loss in Poland where they had the game in their hands, but let it slip away at the end and even could of won it, but a last second shot by Dennis Schroeder didn´t want to fall. Poland was the better team for 40 minutes as Germany had to play catch up basketball all evening long in Bonn as consistency, a lack of motivation and silly mistakes cost them the loss. After the loss, Telekom Baskets Bonn guard Ryan Brooks who watched the game was questioning the lack of effort by Germany and lauding the team basketball of Poland. „Poland played with more energy. Germany played to laid back and when they did make a run at the end it was too late. Poalnd  was  rerally very disciplined, were patient when running their offensive sets and there was so much trust in their offense bye each player on their team. When your finding your teammates and hitting open and tough shots, that makes it hard on Germany to get back into the game especially when Poland is defending so aggressive“, stated ex Fraport Skyliner Ryan Brooks. Poland had a great shooting day and didn´t cough up the ball much, it doesn´t matter if you lost the battle on the boards. After the game, French/Polish forward Aaron Cel was delighted with the performance of his team. „We played a good game and listened to our coach as he told us to get less turnovers as we had so many in the last game against Austria. We only had one turnover at halftime. The scouting against Germany  was excellent as we knew everything about each player and executed on defense. We don´t have any stars on the team, but we knew that if we wanted to win that we had to play together on offense and defense and we did that“, added Aaron Cel.

Before the game started one could of took out a notebook to pencil down which known basketball figures were in the Telekom Dome in Bonn as there was Dirk Bauermann who seemed browner than usual. Either he has been living on an island or really been living under the solarium. Other notable people in attendance were Ingo Weiss from the German basketball federation, Beko BBL boss Jan Pommer, German basketball legend and Dennis Schroeder agent Ademola Okulaja, and agent Patrick King. After the national anthems of both countries were played, it was time to play basketball. Poland got off to the better start as Aaron Cel nailed a pull up jumper and Stelmet teammates Aaron Cel who knew each other inside out on the court fed big man Adam Hrycaniuk for the easy lay in. Germany couldn´t get any rhythm on offense as Poland kept executing their sets even if some shots were more difficult than others as Cel connected on a step back jumper and Hrycaniuk scored inside again as Poland led 9-4. The big man Hrycaniuk kept giving Germany problems inside as nobody could match his physicality as Poland led 13-6 as German head coach Emir Mutapcic took a time out. Poland  wasn´t letting Germany get into a rhythm as they continued to defend aggressive even at times  they got an extra foul becuase of their more risky play. After the timeout, Germans Dennis Schroeder and Elias Harris were inserted. Schroeder responed with a three pointer to cut the Poland lead to 13-11. However the fresh breath of NBA air didn´t faze Poland as they closed out the first quarter on a 13-4 run to lead 26-15. Taylor did a fine job using his big man rotation as 205cm Damian Kulig scored inside twice and made a nifty fade way jumper. 20 year old Mateusz Ponitka who Taylor thinks highly of dropped a big three pointer. „Ponitka is a big talent from the year 1993. He is a big difference maker and just makes big plays“, warned Mike Taylor. „You didn´t have to be an expert to see that Germany had a very bad start. It really only matters how a team can deal with being back 11 points“, stressed Dirk Bauermann. After one quarter Poland was shooting 58% from the field and 40% from outside while Germany was shooting 25% from the field and 14% from outside. Germany had the 10-6 rebound edge, but five turnovers while Poland had zero turnovers.

Germany had a great start in the second quarter, but were effected by a huge Poland defensive play which sparked Poland to go on a run and retain an 11 point lead only to witness Germany cut their lead to two points at halftime. Germany started the second quarter with a 9-2 run to cut the Poland lead to 28-24. Schroeder started off the run with a deadly three pointer from the wing and Robin Benzing then snuck inside for an easy bucket. Schroeder then glided through the Poland defense with so much grace that a confident swan couldn´t have done it better on the Rhine river. After a Damian Kulig lay in, Germany had some fortune as Poland were careless losing an easy defensive rebound that Daniel Theis scooped up forthe easy put back. Then came that timely big play by Poland as beast Kulig of PGE Turow came from the weak side and stuffed Theis on the lay in attempt. This fueled his offensive game as he converted on back to back three pointers. Robert Skibniewski then hit a pull up jumper as Germany trailed 36-24. Germany once again couldn´t keep consistency as Poland was able to build another comfortable lead. However Germany then displayed possibly their strongest spurt of the game finishing the second  quarter on a 16-7 run to trail only 43-41. Ex Wurzburg forward Maxi Kleber hit two three pointers in a row cutting the Poland lead to 38-30 and keeping Germany from sinking in the Rhine river. Germany slowly continued to come back as Benzing hit a three pointer and Daniel Theis had two big dunks as his ex teammate shovled him the ball on the first monster dunk. Germany was able to go into half time with a chance to come back in the second half and try for the win. „Germany played a lot better in the last 6-7 minutes. Germany has the better bench and showed it. Germany took advantage of the weaker Polish gaurd position and went inside more. Germany also put Benzing into better scoring position“, stated Dirk Bauermann. Poland was shooting 54% from the field and 40% from the three point land while Germany was shooting 51% from the field and 45% from the three point line. Germany still had a firm grip on the glass 19-9, but had eight turnovers while Poland had one turnover.

Just when one thought Germany was back in the game, they returnned back and really stunk up the Telekom Dome arena in the third quarter. They let Poland walk all over them letting the opponent go on a 17-2 run to lead 60-43. German Maxi Kleber got a first hand look at what future teammate Adam Wacaczynski can do as he finally got on the scoreboard hitting a pull up jumper and getting a lay in after being scoreless in 12 minutes in the first half. Hrycaniuk continued to be in beast mode scoring inside while Skibniewski hit a three pointer as Poland led 55-41. After almost six minutes elapsed, Robin Benzing got Germany on the scoreboard with free throws. Ponitka then took a chapter out of the Dennis Schroeder text book scoring on  a finger tip role in and Waczyniski hit another three pointer. Germany had some costly turnovers in this huge run, but also had some misfortune as they missed a few easy lay ups that they should of had. „“I think that this run just showed that we had the same level throughout the game. We were like a machine, worked hard and believed in ourselves“, added Aaron Cel. All this damage surprisingly was done with Schroeder on the court. Sometimes one has to ask where that leader is that can get its team out of a jam at any time as a Dirk Nowtzki can. „There are many guys that can do this. I think a Schroeder can do it as can a Schaffartzik who can be a real fox and lead with words. Germany is capable to lead as a team. They have to be a well functioning team where each player knows ist role and important is that each guy has the ability to always be able to help their team“, warned Dirk Bauermann. Despite Poland having a 17 point lead, Germany was able to cut it down to 13 points as Poland led 66-53 after 30 minutes. In the last few minutes Ponitka and Schroeder exchanged three pointers and Benzing nailed a jumper and then fed a cutting Theis for another big dunk. After three quarters Poland had  a shooting percentage of 53% from the field and 44% from the parking lot while Germany was shooting 45% from the field and 37% from the parking lot. Germany still had the rebounding advantage 26-17, but 13 turnovers while Poland had only three turnovers.

In the fourth quarter, Poland kept a nice lead until Germany made a run late to cut the Poland lead to six points, but that is as close as Germany got as Poland shut the door on them in their own living room. Theis started off the fourth quarter with a classic work horse play muscling to the hoop and finishing and feeling the pain on his shoulder as he scrambled  back on defense. However then it was time for Ponitka of Belgium team Ostende who made the big shots hitting consecutive three pointers to give Poland the 72-58 lead and some German fans asking who is that kid. Cel then scored inside and Poland led by 16 points, but Germany still had some energy left going on a 6-0 run to get back to 74-64. Schroeder made a pull up jumper and Theis scored a three pointer after Schaffartzik had saved a loose ball. After Waczyniski hit a in your face three pointer for the 77-64 Poland lead, Germany made their last run oft he game going on a 7-0 run to cut the Poland lead to 77-71. Theis hit a fade away jumper and then one could sense that Schroeder was trying lead a Nowitzki like come back as he hit a three pointer and then scored inside as the ball trickled into the net. Waczynski then made free throws as Poland led 79-71. With under two minutes to play, Germany made a low percentage ally op try to Theis that missed and was punished with an Aaron Cel three pointer which got the Mike Taylor fist and the game was decided. Poland hit some free throws more and at the end left Bonn with a 88-76 win and 3-1 record in play. „We were cold blood at the end. Germany came back, but we stayed calm and didn´t force anything. We knew that they wouldn´t hit 10 three pointers at the end. We knew that if we just played defense, we would win“, stressed Aaron Cel. Poland shot 51% from the field and 50% from outside while Germany shot 49% from the field and 41% from outside. Germany won the rebound battle 33-23, but had a miserable 17 turnovers while Poland had seven only. „We have to play better against Austria and can´t play like we did in the first and third quarters“, warned Deniis Schroeder. Germany hosts Austria August 24th in Hagen.

 

James Washington is a 26 year old 182cm guard from St Louis that recently completed his third professional season having played for KFUM Nassjo Basket (Sweden-Basketligan): 36 games: 17.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.9apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 48.5%, 3FGP: 38.7%, FT: 83.6%, in Mar.’14 moved to VOO Wolves Verviers-Pepinster (Belgium-Ethias League, starting five): 9 games: 13.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 36.8%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 86.1%. He started his basketball career in 2006 for  W.Illinois (NCAA) where he played 36 NCAA games in two seasons. After a year at  Indian Hills C, he went to Middle Tenn.St. (NCAA) in 2009 where he played until 2011. As a senior he played 32 games: 14.0ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.8apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 86.4%. In 2011-2012 he started his professional basketball career in Germany for TBB Trier (Germany-BBL) playing 23 games: 5.7ppg, 1.8rpg, FGP: 38.8%, 3PT: 29.7%, FT: 80.0%. IN 2012-2013 he played for BG Topstar Leitershofen/Stadtbergen (Germany-ProB) playing  15 games: 20.0ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 83.5%. He talked to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

 

Hi James, where are you at the moment. How has your summer been?

What’s going on, I’m in St. Louis, Missouri. My summer has been really good, spent time with my family, traveled, and worked out.

You are obviously staying in shape and doing your workout programs, but how often does the Ferguson incident enter your mind when you are training? Every so often it seems like the fight against racism makes strides, but all in all examples like this show that this problem seems to be a difficult issue that will forever haunt the United States. How have you experienced the last week in St Louis with this issue?

Honestly when I go into to the gym or workouts I zone out, but when I leave it’s definitely on my mind because my mother and father’s house is only about 3-5 minutes from the crime scene and protesting grounds and I have other family members that stay even closer. But, investigation is still on going and all details have yet to be determined. So I don’t want to make it a racial issue I just want justice for Mike Brown, his family, and any other parties involved. I don’t by any means support the looting and destroying of our communities, but love how we have shown we can come together!

The summer is nearing to an end and you still are in the States while your ex teammates and friends are already in Europe preparing for the new season. I’ve heard You had 4 offers so far, but you rejected them all. Was it the money or going to a low league that enabled you to say no to these offers?

All of the offers have pretty much been from good to top leagues. My agent and I just want the best situation for myself and future all in one. Including winning, league, team, money etc.

I guess after last season where you tore up the league in Sweden and had very good stats in Belgium, you were expecting good offers this summer. Are you a little disappointed that they haven´t come?

I’ve had some pretty good offers, just waiting for the best opportunity.

Did you have any offers from Germany? I am sure you would like to play there again after having been in Trier and Leitershofen?

My agent have been In contact with a few BBL German teams, but none of those offers are from there. I tell people all the time how good the league was and how Germany reminds me of the States being so Americanized.

Players have had this experience in the past where they waited and waited for the best offer and before they knew it the new season started and they were still in the States with no team. Aren´t you getting a bit nervous that this fate could happen to you?

Naturally of course the thought runs through my mind every so often, but at the same time I trust my game, what I can bring to a team, and my agents work to land me a good job.

Lets look back on last season. You started the season at KFUM Nassjo Basket (Sweden-Basketligan): 36 games: 17.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.9apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 48.5%, 3FGP: 38.7%, FT: 83.6%. How important was it having these good stats again coming from the lower German Pro B?

I think it was very important to show what I could do not just offensively, but on both ends of the floor. Not taking anything from German Pro B level because it’s good players there too. But I needed to show I could do the same thing at a higher level, and now I’m looking forward to repeating myself again next season.

You were actually the second oldest on the team behind Torbjorn Svensson. How strange was it being the only American on the team? Were you seen automatically as the leader?

You making me feel old, but it’s not often being 25 at the time and being almost oldest on the team. But yes we had a very young team and I had a big role in Sweden. Coming from always being the youngest in Germany at TBB Trier to the leader in Sweden, helped me grow even faster and makes me feel like I went from a rookie to a veteran in one season. I was the only American for a short time in the beginning of the season before Taylor Brown got there and at the end when he left to Belgium first. Felt very different without him at times.

You played the last two months of last season with VOO Wolves Verviers-Pepinster (Belgium-Ethias League) playing 9 games: 13.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 36.8%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 86.1%. You only had a 1-8 record, but what was the most important thing that you gained from that short experience?

The biggest thing I gained was experiencing the talent and speed of another top league again. The Belgium league reminds me of the athleticism and physicality of the German BBL.

You played against many solid guards like Demond Mallet, Taylor Battle or Derek Raivio all who have played in the Beko BBL. You gained self confidence I am sure, but what part of your game really was tweaked in those last two months?

I think being able to decide when to be more of a scorer or more a distributer. I led my team in scoring in Belgium also, but after watching film I noticed sometimes in certain parts of the game I needed to get the ball to certain people or certain spots on the floor.

Did you see Jimmy Mckinney this summer? He also is still unsigned. Would it be like a dream to play on the same team with him?

Of course, J Roc is a big brother to me. We workout, play pick up, and play in the pro am almost every day together. That would be crazy! We know each other’s game very well which would help out a lot. I know where to get him the ball so I would for sure average some extra assists just off him.

When you were with TBB Trier, you played together with Nate Linhart who was playing his first season in Europe. This season he will play for Euroleague team Macabbi tel Aviv. When you look back on that season, did you know that he had the game to make it this far? What did you like most about his game?

I want to say congrats to Nate for that opportunity and good luck. But looking back Nate was always the player coach Henrik couldn’t keep off the floor because he did so many things and brought so much to the table. I liked how he slashed to the basket and ran the floor to make it easier for Dru Joyce and I on fast break opportunities.

If you could describe yourself in a few sentences as to why you could help any team now how would you do it?

I am a point guard with shooting, and scoring abilities of an off guard. Son of a coach so I grew up on defense and doing what it takes to win ball games.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Watched Identity Thief yesterday.

 

Thanks James for the chat

 

Todd Brown is a 26 year old 196cm guard from Canton, Ohio that is starting his fifth professional season and first in Germany with Phoenix Hagen. He started his basketball career in 2006 with Wright State(NCAA) where he played until 2010 playing a total of 129 NCAA games and as a senior played 32 games: 12.6ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 73.6%. In 2010-2011 he started his professional basketball career for DeFriesland Aris Leeuwarden (Holland-DBL, starting five): 39 games: 14.6ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 73.7%. In 2011-2012 he played for WBC Raiffeisen Wels (Austria-A Bundesliga, starting five): 36 games: 15.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.6apg, Steals-3(1.9spg), FGP: 56.2%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 80.1%. In the 2012-2013 season he played for Mineros de Cananea (Mexico-CIBACOPA): 9 games: 17.6ppg, 5.1rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 17.1%, FT: 85.0%. Last season he played for Lappeenranta NMKY (Finland-Korisliiga, starting five): 42 games: Score-2(22.2ppg), 6.3rpg, 2.8apg, Steals-3(2.0spg), FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 81.6%. He spoke to German Hoops about basketball.

 

 

 

Todd thanks for talking to German Hoops.  You got signed very late this off season to Phoenix Hagen. How was the overall experience this season for you looking for a new team? Were you a bit nervous at the end about catching on somewhere?

 

The overall experience was good. I had interest from different teams, and I trust my agent so I spend my summers enjoying family and friends.

Welcome to Germany. You will play for Phoenix Hagen. What were the magical words from head coach Ingo Freyer that made you want to come to this team?

Really wasnt any magical words that got me to sign, it was more the challenge I enjoy competition and seeing how I compare to other players. And I like the Hagen style of play.

What do you know about the Germany as a country and its basketball? You have ex teammates from college that have played here and opponents you had from other countries.

I have a few friends that have played in Germany so I know some things but it’s nothing like actually living at a place and getting the experience.

After playing in lower leagues like Holland, Austria and Finland, you now will have the chance to prove that you can play in a top league like the Beko BBL. Are you ready for the challenge?

I feel I am ready for the challenge. I have been playing at a high level all my life. My high school team was one of the best in the nation. And went on to play Division 1 basketball, so God willing my game shows it.

Your new teammate Larry Gordon also proved he could play in the Beko BBL after having played in Holland and Austria. How excited are you to finally be teammates with him and what do you like most about his game?

Larry is a hard worker and before we were even teammates we got along well so hopefully he can make my transition easier.

Last season you played for Lappeenranta NMKY (Finland-Korisliiga) playing 42 games: Score-2(22.2ppg), 6.3rpg, 2.8apg, Steals-3(2.0spg), FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 81.6%. Finland is a league that has helped countless players make the next step like a Ricky Hickman who made it all the way to Macabbi Tel Aviv winning the Euroleague last season. How important was your season in Finland and what did this experience give your game to make the next step now in Germany?

Last year in Finland was a very important season because I came off a knee injury and fought my way back to a pro level. So while I was going through my therapy with my knee my mentality changed about basketball and I believe for the better.

The scouting report on you is very positive. You are a pure scorer that can fill up the stats sheets. However what do you believe is a strength in your game that doesn´t always get noticed right away on the court and remains off the radar?

I think a talent of mine that may not get noticed often is my basketball IQ. I take pride in knowing the game and reading situations while I am playing. It makes the game a little easier for me I think.

You had a very solid rookie season at DeFriesland Aris Leeuwarden (Holland-DBL) playing 39 games: 14.6ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 73.7%. What was your wake up call as a rookie where you knew that you had landed as a professional in Europe?

My rookie year I had a great coach in Pete Miller. He kept me focused and he believed in me and we had vets on that team but he and my team trusted me in big situations.

In the 2011-2012 season you played for WBC Raiffeisen Wels (Austria-A Bundesliga) with ex Phoenix Hagen player Quentin Pryor. It doesn´t really get any more intense than with Q. Does He rank up in your top 3 hardest competitors that you have ever played with?

Me and Q still talk to this day, I loved being on the same team with him, because I always knew what I was going to get from him and we worked well on the court together.

It seems like everyone has their Dashaun Wood story. Vaughn Duggins remembers that in practice that Wood would tell him how he would score against his opponent on the next play and beat him 9/10 times in one on one as he was a freshman. What was your Dashaun Wood story as a freshman?

Me and D.Woods were roommates on road trips and the thing I remember most is before games he would turn on cartoons and turn the heat on high and take a shower. He loved SpongeBob lol so if that was on I knew he was going to have a good game. But he plays with something to prove every night.

Ex players that played at Wright State continue to marvel about head coach Billy Donlon.How did he prepare you best for a professional basketball career? Do you ever think back and agree that his words really did help you as a professional?

Coach Donlon is a gym rat and he prepared me more for pro than he did college because he wasnt the head coach at the time but he taught us so many moves and little tricks that would give us the advantage against any one he played and he was so passionate about the game.

You played 4 seasons of NCAA basketball. You played against so many great players, but who was the toughest player that you had to guard that is in the NBA now?

In college I would have to say Isaiah Thomas played him my senior year. I had 20 something that game he had like 30 off free throws because he was so crafty.

You are one of very many very skilled players that come from the state of OHIO. Why do so many good players come from the State? Is it only the good youth development or is there something special in the food there? Lol

I think good players come from Ohio because high school sports mean a lot to people, in my city of Canton,Ohio high school sports in everything.

You got a psychology degree at Wright State. How much has this degree helped you understand the mental aspect of the game of basketball better?

I think my psychology help me not be so hard on myself in big situations, just look at it as its just basketball no ones life depends on the shot or the game all you can really do is your best. But if it goes wrong I am still very angry lol . I dont like to lose. So I dont know if it helps much lol.

How often have you been in the NFL Hall Of Fame? What memorabilia do you stand next to most in that building?

The pro football Hall Of Fame is on my high school campus so I have been a lot. Hall of fame weekend is big in my city, Canton comes alive during that week.

Lebron James is returning home to the Cavs. Where will the journey of this NBA team go in the next few years with much youth on board and the best basketball player on the planet on the team?

The Cavs or any team with Lebron James becomes a front runner for the championship.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Last DVD was He got game, best player to ever play the game is Jesus Shuttlesworth.

Thanks for the chat Todd.

Enis Murati is a 26 year old 194cm forward from Austria that has played his whole career for Allianz Swans Gmunden (Austria-A Bundesliga). Last season was his best season in Austria where he played 28 games: averaging 13.4ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 84.8%. He prompt was invited to the Austrian national team and currently is taking part in the Euroqualifying for 2015. In three games he is averaging 19,0ppg, 3,3rpg and 1,7apg. He is shooting 61% from outside in the three games and had his breakthrough against Germany with 27 points. Last night he helped lead Austria past Poland 83-81 with 18 points. He spoke to German Hoopsfollowing the loss to Germany recently.

 

 

Enis thanks for talking to German Hoops. A tough 77-64 loss to Germany in the second game of European qualifications. I guess Austria learned tonight that a game has 40 minutes and not 35 minutes. Is this a game that Austria will be able to forget quickly?

 

This was a very hard game for us. We controlled the game for the most part and lost at the end. That hurts. But we learned a lot out of it, and the concentration is already headed to the Poland game.

With five minutes to play Austria led 64-56, but then totally lost their rhythm allowing Germany to finish the game with a 21-0 run. Did Austria get tired? What were the main reasons for not being able to score in the last five minutes?

We lost our concentration for a couple possessions and couldn’t recover from it. We stopped to play in offense and defense. The Germans found finally their rhythm and made all the important shots. We are a very young team and have to get used to play for 40 min on such a high level.

Germany lost the first game in Poland and were on the boarder of losing in Austria. Were you surprised how Germany played for 35 minutes? Is Germany overrated or just not playing to their potential despite having NBA player Dennis Schroeder and other top players?

 Germany has a very good team. I think they still look to find their rhythm. Regardless I think that right now also other countries can play good basketball and should not be underestimated.

You led your team with 27 points and shot 11/16. You have played your whole life in Austria. Has Germany never been an option for you? Do you believe that some German teams now know who you are after this performance?

In the past years I wasn’t really thinking about going abroad because I was establishing myself as a player in Austria. Playing for National team is a good chance to be seen by other countries and teams. I like Germany because it has a very strong league and we will see what the future will bring to me.

What German player impressed you the most in the game? Maxi Kleber was a big factor in the fourth quarter why Germany could come back and win the game.

 Maxi Kleber, Zirbes and Schaffartzik impressed me.

How content are you that Austria can still advance? Austria now plays Poland next who is 2-0.

I think we still have good chances. If we want to advance we have to beat one of the stronger teams in our group.

You battled against Thomas Schreiner for many years in Austria with Gmunden against his teams St Polten and Kapfenberg. Last season he helped MoraBanc Andorra (Spain-Liga Endesa) move up from the Leb Gold. Do you see him being an impact player for his team in the top league in Europe?

 Of course. Schreiner is a smart guard who can shoot the ball really well and his pick and role game is very good. He was the best assist maker in his team the last season.

You just can´t separate some players from teams as Pascal Roller played 11 years in Frankfurt or Derrick Sharp who played 15 seasons for Macabbi Tel Aviv. You will begin your ninth season for Gmunden. You have won six titles with Gmunden. What has made this team so special that hasn´t made you want to explore other countries and teams?

 Gmunden is a special place for me. The people who helped me developing to the player as I am now make the difference to other places in Austria. The Club is very familiar and very well organized. Gmunden is not just basketball for me. All my good friends and family is there. Being there for nine years make me feel like at home.

You played three seasons at Gmunden with American Dan Oppland who has returned back to Germany to play for Nurnberg. What was your nicest memory with him on and off the court?

 Dan is a very nice guy and a good teammate with a great work ethic. I won a lot playing with him. My favorite title in 2010 happened when he was in Gmunden. We spent a lot of our free time just hanging out together and also travelling around.

If you and Anton Maresch are parked in the corner and take 10 shots a piece, who will have hit more shots?

I think Romed Vieider will hit the most shots!

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

 Inception

 

Thanks Enis for the chat